Brent Forester D '88, MED '92, FEL '97 Dr. Frances S. Arkin Professor and Chair of Psychiatry at Tufts University School of Medicine; Psychiatrist in Chief and Chairman for the Department of Psychiatry at Tufts Medical Center; Director of Behavioral Health for Tufts Medicine; interim Chair of Neurology for Tufts Medical Center

 

 

Brent P. Forester, MD, MSc, is a leader in geriatric psychiatry and neuropsychiatry. Formerly the chief of the Division of Geriatric Psychiatry at McLean Hospital and an associate professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, Forester has focused his career on enhancing the lives of older adults with mood disorders and cognitive impairments.
 
Forester specializes in geriatric mental health, particularly Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, as well as the link between mood disorders and cognitive decline in later life. His research has greatly advanced understanding and treatment of depression in older adults, especially those with cognitive impairments or dementia.
 
Throughout his career, Forester has participated in numerous clinical trials and research projects. He has been a co-investigator on several National Institutes of Health (NIH) and industry-sponsored studies, investigating innovative treatments for late-life depression and Alzheimer’s disease.
 
Currently, Forester is researching the use of cannabidiol and dronabinol for agitation in Alzheimer’s dementia and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for agitation in dementia. His work has been crucial in advancing geriatric psychiatry and developing effective interventions for older adults with complex mental health needs.
 
Forester has mentored more than 65 students, residents, fellows, and faculty, demonstrating his commitment to developing talent in the field. He regularly presents at national and international conferences, sharing knowledge and best practices. From 2008 to 2012, Forester was co-director of the Scholar’s Program at the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry (AAGP), a national mentoring program for medical students and residents aimed at fostering the next generation of geriatric psychiatrists.
 
Forester has authored many peer-reviewed publications and book chapters and has been invited to speak at prestigious institutions worldwide. Notably, he co-authored “The Complete Family Guide to Dementia: Everything You Need to Know to Help Your Parent and Yourself,” a key resource for families dealing with dementia.

 

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